Which is faster (handles better) around a road course race track? Yes, I like the gen 5 over a GR86 (function and style), yet as I favor sports cars is there a track benefit to Prius AWD over the front drive model? Not sure if our forum can answer my question.
edit: I was wrong. Upon comments from others and extra research, the speed limit for the AWD is either 43mph or gone entirely. I also found an article from Motor Trend that said the FWD did their lap in 27.5 seconds versus the AWD doing 27.0. (both test cars were Limiteds) https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2023-toyota-prius-limited-awd-first-test-review/ *note: The FWD press car was equipped with Toyo Extensa tires, while the AWD was equipped with Michelin Primacy. Probably doesn't account for the half second improvement, but it wasn't a perfect apples to apples comparison. The AWD also had a better stopping distance(122ft vs 132ft), but it's hard to know if the improvement comes from any added regen braking from the rear drive or from the tires themselves.
Depends on the driver and the mods done to the car... Front wheel drive car racers use way different wheels on the front than on the back compared to RWD and the technique for racing them takes a while to learn. Whereas AWD works well for people who aren't race car drivers, but want the car to track well around curves at speed, as well as in ice and mud. Or as this Quora link explains: "Racing cars are typically not all-wheel drive (AWD) for a few reasons. Firstly, AWD systems add weight and complexity, which can affect a racing car's performance and handling. Secondly, in many racing scenarios, particularly on smooth racetracks, rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive setups can provide better performance and handling characteristics. These setups allow for better weight distribution and more precise control during high-speed cornering." Why aren't racing cars AWD? - Quora
Fixed the title. FWD because of weight. Since it's not permanent AWD or torque vectoring AWD, you won't gain anything with this system. I don't know if Toyota sets up regen with the rear wheel on AWD models but given the relatively low regen power, you'll primarily be using the friction brakes anyway. That said, a Prius Prime might be better still (yes I know I just said the weight of the AWD system isn't worth it). It'll have better weight distribution (though that might actually work against acceleration since there's less weight over the drive wheels but it will help with more neutral handling) and the larger battery will allow for long battery assist in HV mode.
I edited my post. I also found a source that said the speed limiter is gone entirely. Unfortunately the New Car Features section on the AWD motor doesn't say anything about the topic at all(that I could find).
The info screen on the dash(with the 4 wheels) shows the AWD working at higher speeds, especially when its wet. I'm going to go with that the AWD will have better drive out of the corners which could make up some time.
Thanks all. FWIW Yes, in my research, AWD (rear) does not function over 43 mph. I never considered the Prime, noting it have about 30 horsepower more. But... my goal was road feel, so test drives that scare the salesman may be my best option LOL. Again thanks.
